Here we have one of the best bargains you’ll find in the performance roadster category – the BMW Z3 M. The “M” stands for Motorsports, distinguishing this variant from the plain-Jane Z3. The story began in 1995, when BMW introduced the Z3 as a follow-on to its quirky Z1. Aimed at the Miata’s niche, the first Z3s were equipped with a four-cylinder engine, and manufactured in South Carolina – the first BMW made entirely outside of Germany. A debut in the James Bond movie Goldeneye propelled the Z3 to the forefront of the automotive press. The advent of the six-cylinder S52 engine in 1996, the highly tuned M variant in 1998, then the more powerful S54 in 2001 put the Z3 on the map. Find this low-mileage 1999 BMW M on craigslist for $19,500; the car is located in Lake Oswego, Oregon. Thanks to Curvette for passing along the tip!
The Motorsports version of the Z3 utilizes the M3 engine; this one is the S52, displacing 3.2 liters, making 240 hp with a 7000 rpm redline in factory tune. But this car sports a Dinan Stage 2 engine module, which removes the top speed limiter installed by BMW and improves torque. The seller suggests that output now registers 275 hp. The M variant was also built with a ZF five-speed (versus the Z3’s four-speed), a limited-slip differential, bigger brakes, and stiffer suspension – some say too stiff. This car has traveled just 56,700 miles.
The cabin is cozy, but once you’re in here, the seats are supportive and the ergonomics are great. All the modern conveniences are available – air conditioning, heated seats, power door locks. The seller notes that the plastic rear window should be replaced. One note born of experience: if you’re planning a long road trip, better evaluate your packing habits versus the space allotted for luggage. There’s no space behind the seats, and the trunk is tiny.
Z3 production ran to 2002, then the Z4 was launched. More refined but heavier, the Z4 was designed with sharp body lines accentuating its panels. Each model has its fans, but these days you’ll pay more for a Z4 on average. Today’s featured Z3 M is priced at a slight discount to comparable cars, likely because of the Dinan modification. Most low-mileage, unmodified roadsters with clean CarFax reports will sell somewhere between $25k and $30k. So if you’re in the market for a performance-oriented BMW sports car, this one is a worthy prospect.
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